At the 1988 Democratic Convention she stole the show with her satirical
shots at George Bush, who was running for president. "Poor George. He was
born with a silver foot in his mouth," she said during her speech.
Governor of Texas (1991-1995).
In 1980 she went public with her alcoholism, admitting that it had
contributed to the end of her 30-year marriage. She credited Alcoholics
Anonymous with helping her get sober.
Launched her political career in her 40s, after marrying and having
four children. First won a seat on the Travis County Commission in
Austin in 1976. Was Texas state treasurer in the 1980s.